Stoinian Star Kingdom (A1-0)

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Stoinian Star Kingdom

Flag of the Star Kingdom, Our Proud Lion.
Flag
Map of the Stoinian Star Kingdom with all sector capitals.
Map of the Stoinian Star Kingdom with all sector capitals.
Motto"Sit nomine digna!"
"May they be worthy of the name!"
Founded1622 BBT
1527 BBT reorganised into Star Kingdom
22 BBT MacKinnon Reformations
LocationSector A1-0, (1100-1100,1500-800 lys)
CapitalCasarin, Casaria
PopulationTotal: 37.5 trillion
Head of stateHigh King Andrei III Casarion
Head of governmentHigh Chancellor John P. Sheridan
Major speciesTerrans
Csin
LanguageStandard Anglish
Key technologyMagnetic Accelerator Cannons
Warp Field Drive
Rift Drive
Cryogenics
Tachyonics
Nanocomposites
Biological regeneration
Genetic therapy
Quantum entanglement
Quantum computing
Nanotechnology
Fusion reactor
Terraformation
Hyperforge
Hydroponics
Xenolinguistics translation matrix
MilitaryStoinian Armed Forces
Intelligence serviceNational Intelligence Agency
Enemies Venterran Federation
Key peopleStrategos Douglas W. Hague
CurrencyAstrali (₳)
Various planetary currencies
ReligionsStoinian religions
AnthemOur Proud Lion!

The Stoinian Star Kingdom is a Terran star nation located in the southern part of Sector A1-0 bordering the Treecuu Star Empire and the Veentu Badlands in the north, the Holy Imperium Of Trianar in the west, and the Akropii Republic in the east. Its history is tainted by bloody wars against xeno races which resulted in a near Terran supremacist ideology with the War at Home being the pivotal war which shaped the Star Kingdom to its current form. However, in the last decade, this has shifted. From making trade agreements to a growing military alliance with the Treecuu, the Star Kingdom has become an affluent astropolitical power. Aside from its growing role in the Sector, it consists of a unique governance system where the military is entirely separate from the civilian government. This has led to a vast fighting force that some have grown to fear.

Additionally, the Star Kingdom remains a truly democratic institution and one of the few adamant capitalist star nations. Engaging in bilateral relations with the similarly minded Terran star nations of Drakari Celestial Imperium, Ryccian Empire and Union of Emerald as well as the Kezimite Kingdom and Dunedari Free-Standings.
Especially its citizens are known to have a lot of zeal to expand the Star Kingdom in whatever way possible. Be it through military service, diplomatic missions or business expansion. Although fundamentally a Terran star nation, the recent reign of High King Andrei III has shown a drastic shift in interactions with foreign nations. Instead of the historically isolated expansionism, the Star Kingdom now pursues a proactive stance in its expansion to build durable relations with foreign powers. Furthermore, the High King has initiated multiple species integrations into the large Star Kingdom following the Csin Compromise, Kalrathi Campaign & annexation of Kontaurius. This hasn't happened without internal political opposition, yet the Star Kingdom continues its course to become a dominant power within Sector A1-0.

Etymology

The word Stoinian derives from the ancient Hallenic word stoic. The word would be popularised by the first High King Alexandru I Casarion as a description of Stoinian people. Etymologically, it stems from the intermingling of multiple Terran languages. In the famous Lion Speech at the end of the War at Home, Alexandru I Casarion claimed the Terrans were forged into a new people one that had stoic values at its core. Now the word is associated with courage, pride, honour, and duty. Core pillars of what it means to be Stoinian and be worthy of the name of such a name.

History

Colonial Era

The Colonial Era is known as the time period from 1232 PD to 1328 PD. It is characterised by the initial colony on Casaria and the formation of the fundamental pillars of Stoinian culture such as the High Kingship and national political consolidation. Culturally, in this era pioneers were at the forefront and general romanticism was widespread throughout society despite the shocking War at Home. An unrivalled economic boom and the philosophical formation of Stoinian society also left deep cultural roots during this era.

The Founding of the Colony

In the year 1232 Post Diaspora the colony ship Zamolxis, named after the Dacian god from Terran antiquity, arrived with its Terran colonists on the 1st of May on the world of HD-8762-III, a continental ringed super earth flourishing with life never seen before by man. Most notable was a creature resembling the old Terran lion. The 10 million colonists were part of a project made possible by the prominent business tycoon Alexandru Cuzaru. The colony project was meant to create a new colony for a Terran star nations to preserve the traditions of Terran ethnicities. However, due to unknown factors, the Zamolxis arrived at another planet than initially intended. Regardless, the colonists decided to stay on the newly discovered lush world, naming the newly founded colony Virtue. Its governance was handed to a Council of Shareholders compromising of the largest funders to the colony project. Slowly but steadily, the colonists formed communities across Virtue according to ethnicities. In total 38 states formed which answered to the Council of Shareholders.

Converting the colony ship into the early industrial complex, the colonists prospered and formed a vast network of specialised industries in the various planetary states. Self-governance was permitted and an informal confederation was formed between the planetary states with the Council of Shareholders acting as the federal government. However, their progress would be halted by the War at Home.

The War at Home

In 1240 PD on July 16th, catastrophe struck as a small raiding party of 80,000 Mardakii landed on Casaria near one of the Vendaler rural towns in Osira. From there, the feral and barbaric raiders started heinous acts of violence. The Council of Shareholders was forced to enact martial law and the Terran population was effectively at war overnight. This came as a shock to the population which was still focused on expanding its infrastructure in the divided states.

Police Commissar Thys Koeremoer was appointed Supreme Commander. He was tasked with the creation of the Army of Virtue and aid the Council of Shareholders in its war campaign. The primary Terran weaponry facilities were attacked first by the Mardakii during their first raids near Casarin. As a result, the Terrans had to resort to melee combat in numerous, which heavily favoured the Mardakii. The war forced the colonists to use domesticated wildlife and spearheaded further domestication. The war would go down in history as the most brutal war of the Stoinians as wounds from the battlefield were often fatal and the Mardakii desecrated Terran bodies. It wasn't infrequent for Mardakii to even eat Terran flesh.

The War at Home also saw the rise of many heroes completing staggering achievements. A few of these instances are tales of how Alexandru Cuzaru personally slew the Colossus, the leader of the Mardakii thrice the size of the average Mardakii, with Star Roar, a sword made by the legendary blacksmith Miyamoto Tsuneyo who forged it out of the unique metal of the Songhyon meteorite. In addition, the Colossus' armour was forged into the Iron Crown that would be granted to the High King of the Stoinians as a symbol of its forging in the forges of war. Poetry also reveres the Last Charge of General Gerald Stallard and the Charge at Geelvink Hill. A rare case of hysteria in a Hallenic woman of Archonate of Prasinnesos has also led to the creation of the Augural Books, a collection of utterances in Hallenic heptameter which are considered prophecies concerning the Stoinians' history and future.
Due to the brutality of the war, colonists too indulged in acts like skinning the pelts of Mardakii and wearing their claws and teeth as trophies around their necks. It wouldn't take long before the colonists would start to consume the meat of the Mardakii. The invaders were seen as little more than 'radges' or animals to be slaughtered for their crimes. A widespread societal hatred for the Mardakii grew in Stoinian society that would define the principle doctrines of the Star Kingdom.

As the military-industrial complex was rebuilt, the war tipped in favour of the colonist and after hard-fought campaigns, the Terran colonists had won the war. Though both their consciousness and planet had been scarred by it. They had been reforged into something new: 'Stoinians' as the Chairman of the Council of Shareholders Alexandru Cuzaru called the colonist in his famous Lion Speech. The people cheered Alexandru Cuzaru's speech and consequently agreed to his government reforms. Political factions had him eventually crowned as the first High King of the Stoinians on May 10th 1245 PD. In a surprise act, he renamed both the planet and his new dynasty's name to Casaria and Casarion (Siranian: Casariu) respectively as deity and spirit to protect the cottages (Latin: Casārius) of the Stoinian people.

Special honours were also given to the millions of fallen colonists. Especially soldiers were honoured and a large area of land was ceded to create the Lexington National Military Cemetery. The sacrifice of this first generation of Stoinian soldiers remains deeply entrenched in the Star Kingdom and is commemorated on February 12th, the date of the Charge at Geelvink Hill, on Remembrance Day.

Though the war officially ended on April 27th 1245 PD, there were still roaming Mardakii which roamed freely in Casaria's wilderness. The War at Home had taken 5.5 million Terran lives over the course of five years. The brutality of the war left a dark stain on the Terran populace which it would never forget nor forgive. With a vengeful fury, the Terrans set out the remaining Mardakii. This hunt would become a pivotal aspect of Stoinian culture and repeated yearly to honour the fallen from the War at Home.

The Great Hunt

With the Great Hunt Act, High King Alexandru I Casarion instituted laws that targeted the Mardakii specifically. The Mardakii species was no longer to be considered sapient and may be hunted as animals. Furthermore, the legislation aimed to create a vast hunting reserve where the Mardakii could be continued to be hunted by future Stoinian generations. A valley within the cascadian landscape of the Cascanna continent on Casaria was designated to become the Great Mardakii Hunting Reserve and designated 'Atonement Valley'.

By August 15th 1246 PD, all remaining Mardakii were contained within the confines of Atonement Valley. Here the Mardakii were kept to atone for their sins against Mankind and hunted yearly in the second week of August by a group of seven licensed Mardakii hunters chosen by a lottery system upon registration and meeting certain requirements. Ever since the Great Hunt has become a staple of Stoinian society and was sometimes even televised. The wares made out of Mardakii range from fur cloaks to claw knives and have become treasured possessions in the Star Kingdom.

Dawn of the High Kingship

After the consolidation of the Great Hunt, High King Alexandru I turned towards the centralisation of the government's power. The ethnic communities were given referenda to institute local nobility under the High King with candidates ranging from heroes from the War at Home to major shareholders of the colony project who didn't opt for exclusive industrial rights. 28 states voted in favour to appoint cultural nobilities to maintain the Terran culture. Although these nobilities serve primarily cultural roles, they have limited political power depending on the political system of their states. This principle of a voluntary nobility where nobility is elected by the people and appointed by the High King, instituted by High King Alexandru I has become a widespread practice with planetary dynasties setting an example to the populace often through military and spiritual service. It should be noted, however, that the elevation of nobility can be retracted by referenda, although rare, remains ensured in the Constitution of the Stoinian Star Kingdom.

In addition, High King Alexandru I also limited the previous powers entrusted to His position as High King of the Stoinians. He constructed the Royal Palace of House Casarion in the Kingdom of Sirania, choosing to live in a secluded and modest palace with his ethnic Siranian compatriots. Often He tried to escape the grandeur of His role as High King of the Stoinians and clashed with the political factions which wanted to increase the centrality of His position in Stoinian society. From His approach stems the modest culture of the Stoinian High Kingship.

Socio-economically, He spearheaded the reconstruction effort with the aid of Chancellor Roger Winton, an old friend of High King Alexandru I, to repopulate and industrialise Casaria Limited forms of spaceflight were achieved and the Star Kingdom began to mine Casaria's moon and ring.
The Free State of Casarin began the construction of the Star Kingdom's first Spire City after vast areas of land were ceded to it and became the first free city of the Star Kingdom. Attractive stimuli were given to families with more than five children which exist to this day. The government invested heavily in communal kindergartens and schools where children could expand their extracurricular activities until their parents were able to pick them up. This policy was created to ensure a high birth rate and a productive populace and was entrenched in conjunction with a four-day workweek. Education both in school and at home became essential pillars of Stoinian society. To this day, Stoinian teachers are well-respected by the wider populace. The duo also created the framework for a thriving capitalistic market such as limited corporate taxes alongside strong government programs like interstate infrastructure. Even Casaria's nature was protected ensuring that 75% of its land surface remains unharmed from Terran influence. These paired with a fiery colonial spirit, brought the Star Kingdom an unrivalled economic boom for its people.

For his efforts, Chancellor Roger Winton was granted the titular noble title of Lord of Virtue and founded the second Great House of the Stoinian Star Kingdom. His lineage now could appoint local nobility just like the High King. This friendship between House Casarion and House Winton remains intact to this day.

In His later years, High King Alexandru I committed to a simple life and personally prepared His heir, Andrei to further consolidate the High Kingship.

The Philosopher-King

The War at Home and cooperative spirit of the Stoinians had already heavily influenced the original colonial culture. However, there still remained some uncertainties regarding old Terran religions. Thus upon the start of His reign, High King Andrei I consulted the Augural Books for weeks trying to understand its messages. After private consultations, he held a large assembly, known as the Great Convocation of 1284 PD, in Casarin with all the religious heads. After a month of debates, He came up with concrete liturgical reforms in Terran religions. Liturgy was adjusted to the harsh reality of the universe and Priests were no longer prohibited from having children across all religions. Stoinian Catholicism also appointed a Vicar of Casarin which replaced the Pope, but still remained liturgically under Him. Furthermore, Stoinism influenced many religious interpretations such as that High King was the living incarnation of the Stoinian Spirit which protected the Stoinians. In addition, the High King was seen as the highest protect of religious freedom as High King Andrei I cemented religious freedom in the Constitution of the Stoinian Star Kingdom. For these reforms, the titles of Lord Sovereign of the Stoinian Spirit and Warden of Heavens were added to the title of High King of the Stoinians.

Aside from religious reforms, High King Andrei I wrote the Codex Stoinius, a book dedicated to illustrating how the ideal Stoinian should live their life. It became part of the centralised curriculum and was taught from memory as well as philosophical discussions in classes. However, the curriculum wasn't solely changed to teach the Codex Stoinius but to also adhere to it. At least 6 hours of physical education per week was installed where children are taught to cooperate through competition. In addition, military formation including gun shooting and gun safety were implemented in classes. It was believed that the Stoinians should be prepared for another War at Home at any time but didn't want it to take away too much from the population from the working force through conscription. Instead, the Stoinian curriculum decided to train every Stoinian child to be a trained and disciplined reservist who could be mobilised swiftly in case of war. Public health also contributed to its implementation as the rigorous PE lessons ensured that the population would be indoctrinated into a healthy lifestyle which they could easily maintain once in the workforce.

High King Andrei I also reformed the Armed Forces by incorporating the Code of Honour. A rulebook for the Armed Forces to adhere so as to not become an animalistic force like the Mardakii which Stoinian society had renounced to be like. This Code of Honour heavily dictates what the military is allowed to do within certain war scenarios. For example, looting the corpses of enemies like the colonists had in the War at Home became forbidden unless a Crusade was declared. Nor would the Stoinians enslave any species to fuel their expansion.

He additionally reformed education in the High Kingship. Heirs to the Lion Throne were now obligated to be schooled in the Domain of Nagoya where each heir would get a taste of Shintoïst discipline and perspectives which High King Andrei I deemed necessary to cultivate strong rulers for the Star Kingdom.

The societal reforms by High King Andrei I had changed Stoinian society forever and forged the encompassing Stoinian philosophy such as Stoinism. For these achievements, High King Andrei I was given the nickname the Philosopher-King and a second father to the nation.

Era of Expansion

Following the Stellar Ascension from 1328 PD onwards, the Star Kingdom knew an exponential growth in territory, population and economy. This territorial expansion brought the Star Kingdom in conflict with species such as the Qoxex, Marcavani and a renewed encounter with the Mardakii. Admirals and High Kings played a major role in society as a consequence. This classical era with unwavering optimism was characterised by the manifestation of the Stoinian Star Kingdom's belief it had divine right over the stars as it continued to expand. This brought unprecedented wealth to its citizens as it entered the first golden age.

Stellar Ascension and Reformation

The spaceflight capabilities of the Star Kingdom had continued to increase since the founding of the colony. By the start of the reign of High King Iulian I, the Stoinians had established permanent mining colonies on Casaria's moons and had begun to explore the Casarius star system. High King Andrei I heavily invested in a joint research program between Stoinian universities and the military. In 1328 PD on March 18th, Rodrigo Aldana successfully operated the first Stoinian Warp field drive with his test vessel the Rayo. Following this success, the Stoinian government heavily invested in colony projects and the creation of the Stoinian Royal Star Navy by High King Iulian I who is seen as the Father of the Stoinian Star Navy.

In the following decade, the Stoinians would colonise 10 new worlds (Graia, Karelian, Louisiana, Muntenia, Osiris, Ossia, Shikoku, Shetland, Vesta & Triton) colloquially known as the Stellar Ascension. These colonies were originally governed by the Casarian planetary states, but as High King Iulian I visited these colonies on tour, He issued legislation in conjunction with Chancellor Arturo Castejón to prohibit such practice. Large political blocs began to form as a result and the progressive political class wanted to ensure each planet's representation. Thus, the Kingdom of Stoinians was reorganised into the Stoinian Star Kingdom in 1341 PD.

High King Iulian I would continue to build up the Stoinian Royal Star Navy and make martial reforms in the Stoinian Royal Army which he continued from his time as the Crown Prince under High King Andrei I's reign. For these exploits, He's often remembered as the 'Martial King' within military circles. He would also frequently journey to the new colonies and gained much respect from the Stoinian populace which began to also call him the 'Starwalker'. Such reverence did the Stoinian populace have for him that he was honoured in various ways, the most popular of which was through tributes from the famous military composer Colonel Caleb Joshua Sampaio.

Great Stellar Trek

Following the Stellar Ascension, the Stoinian Star Kingdom continued to claim new colonies in every direction as the Aldana Warp field drive in the coming decades. Its pioneer spirit still vibrant and eagerness to relive the adventure of its forefathers, convinced many of its citizens to pursue careers on new colony worlds. Casaria's population saw a significant drop and other colonies would soon become more populated. This became known as the Great Stellar Trek and is still an ongoing evolution that hasn't ceased within the Star Kingdom.

Qoxex Campaign


First Mardakii Crusade

Marcavani Campaign

First Golden Age

Following the Marcavani Crusade, High King Traian I Casarion ushered in an era of the Star Kingdom's consolidation. Where the Era of Expansion focused more on claiming vast swaths of space, the First Golden Age focused on optimising as many worlds to the preservation of Terran cultures. A new tide of romanticism waved across the Star Kingdom in an unmatched time of prosperity and pride. It came to an end with the death of High King Iulian III Casarion.

Era of Calamities

Following the First Golden Age, the Star Kingdom ran into numerous contention points which tested the political system. The populace grew warier of its future and its unity until finally the bloodiest war in Stoinian history started with the assassination of High King Alexandru III Casarion by the Velutarian Technocracy.

The Madman's Reign

Colonial Troubles

Velutarian War

Second Golden Age

The Second Golden Age is characterised by an increased role of the military following Regent MacKinnon's reign during the Stoino-Velutarian War. A new wave of optimism inspired the flame in the heart of Stoinians across thousands of worlds. Under the leadership of High King Andrei III Casarion, the Star Kingdom would also successfully integrate xeno species and engage in trade relations with foreign powers.

MacKinnon Reformations


Second Mardakii Crusade


Csin Compromise

Disclosure of Sector A1-0


Kalrathi Campaign


Stoino-Venterran War of Terran Appraisal


Astrography

The Star Kingdom encompasses an area of 11,874,872 cubic LY in the southern parts of Sector A1-0. The realm consists of 29,846 star systems in which there are 6,286 settled worlds of varying degrees. These are then divided into star clusters (30 by 30 LY), constellations (100LY by 100LY) & subsectors (equivalent to 1,000,000 cubic LY). These don't serve as the basis for administrative divisions, but rather for cultural & historical differentiations. However, autonomous planetary states within star systems may decide to form an administrative union, either by partially or completely merging planetary governments, of up to 30 star systems. A prime example of this is the Tozorian Corridor, Domain of Nagoya, Nova Roman Republic, Byzantine Hegemony & Thedyrian League. Historically annexed star nations have similarly been divided into smaller star clusters and maintain a higher degree of cultural differentiation from the wider Star Kingdom. The most prominent amalgamations of these star clusters are the Csin Palatinates & Kontauri Ascendancy.

The Star Kingdom also holds several astral hallmarks such as the Middleton wormhole, various nebulae & the Gates of Death, a large black hole constellation in the north-eastern border in the Paragon Sector. These hallmarks attract a lot of tourism, although some of these have effects on FTL travel. Additionally, these also serve as breeding grounds for space fauna such as Star Orquals & Tzitzimimeh.

Politics and government

The Star Kingdom is led by the Monarch, but he is helped by the civilian government. The civilian government uses a unitary bicameral system. Legislative power is held by Congress which consists of the Planetary Assembly and the People’s Assembly. When there is an equal number of votes for or against a certain legislation, then the High Sentinel, the head of the Congressional Guard, may also vote. Executive power is held by the Royal Cabinet, which is lead by the Chancellor with the Kings grace and elected by popular vote. The King however may overrule the Chancellor’s decisions at any given time. The Cabinet is divided into multiple ministries that influence the civilian populace daily life. Although the Ministries of Colonial Affairs and Foreign Relations work with the Military branch of society in some degrees. Apart from these institutions there also is the Royal Court which is the judicial part of the government.

National governance

Planetary governance


Law enforcement

Bounty hunting

With more outer colonies being founded, criminals also went to these to practice their illegal enterprises. With them hiding from local enforcement and the Military and Police being too invested in other matters, the Government made it possible for people to hunt down these criminals. Thus the profession of Bounty Hunter was born. Although it is more applicable on the outer colonies, it is also legal on the core worlds. These Bounty Hunters are however licensed to use plasma based weaponry to make their work more efficiently. They are held in high regard by most of the population, though some believe that the law enforcement should take this job all on itself. While most of the Bounty Hunters do have a sense of honour as they are commonly also duellists, there are reports of more brutal Bounty Hunters on the outer colonies. However their actions are still within their professional limits. All Bounty Hunters work as independents or in contracted groups. The Law Enforcement Department has sub departments specialised in helping the Bounty Hunters in their work and maintain it. The more fame one gets with this job, the more likely he is to be contacted by high tier private clients. These contracts are to hunt down criminals who have damaged someone else's property or abused human rights. They often are paid by people who have personally suffered from criminal activity. Amongst these famed Bounty Hunters is Nick O'Carr, who came from the outer colony of Crescent in the Corillia Sector.

Foreign policy

Stoinian Foreign policy is dictated by the King himself. He is however assisted by the Chancellor, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal War Council. This may initially seem as a long and slow method to make policy, but the King ultimately makes the final decisions and must enact any formal treaties with his own signature. The Stoinian Star Kingdom has become considerable major force through its prominent and active foreign policy. Trading agreements with other star nations have become popular over time and most star nations can expect cooperative Stoinians, however, exceptions still do occur. The Star Kingdom is expanding its influence in Sector A1-0 and is expected to become one of the more dominant powers in the next years.

Political principles of the Stoinian Star Kingdom

Stoinian at heart, Terran by blood

Is one of the Stoinians' sayings. Their goal is to protect Humanity at large after they learned that Terra had been lost. They wish to meet their fellow Terrans and live in peace with them, for they are bound by the same Terran blood. They do not wish to bring the remnants of Humanity under one banner. For if all Terrans lived under one banner, they would be vulnerable if the banner turned against them. However, if any said banner proves to be oppressive against Terrans, then repercussions may follow by the Stoinians.

Survival of the fittest

Non-Terran sapients, commonly referred to as xenos in the Star Kingdom, are initially viewed as inferior and to be subjugated under the guiding hand of the Terrans. Although this guiding hand has barely seen practice, its role and methods are a highly debated subject in Congress as a result from the Cheunh Compromise. Although the Stoinians themselves have had to face the reality that only the fittest survive. First with the Mardakii and then the Velutarians. These are commonly referred to as respectively the Trial of Strength and the Trial of Intelligence. They faced enemies who were either biologically or technologically superior, but through perseverance, they have beaten both of them. Thus they wish to impose this rule amongst anyone who challenges the Star Kingdom. If need be, even against fellow misguided Terrans.

Economy

Financial system

Industry

Trade

Technology

Space travel

Terraforming

Synthetic life and artificial intelligence

Military

The Armed Forces of the Star Kingdom is a vast and fierce apparatus. Its main goal is the protection of the Star kingdom itself, but also as a shield and sword for all Mankind. It's because of the Stoinian interventionist policy concerning fellow Terrans, that the Armed Forces some times are used for offensive means such as during the Mardakii Crusade. Regardless of its operations, the military has become a pillar of Stoinian society. From the War at Home to the Velutarian War it has served as the Star Kingdom's most loyal and perseverant defender.
Its place in Stoinian society has been solidified by the MacKinnon Reformations where it became a separate entity from the civilian government with no oversight. The monarch holds absolute authority over the Armed Forces which he shares with the Strategos. Military personnel also don't receive any sort of salary during their service and both bases and starships are entirely self-sustaining. After service, the person is granted a military pension with a starting capital to enter civilian life. It's estimated that the combined personnel of the Armed Forces, including reservists, consists of roughly 5% of the total Stoinian population.

Both the Stoinian Royal Army and Royal Navy are renowned war machines in Sector A1-0 for their vast fighting force and specialized machinery, tactics and doctrines. The Stoinian Armed Forces is among the most specialized armed forces within the Sector as it encompasses all types of terrain warfare. From jungles to dessert, from orbital insertions to EVA boarding warfare, its military units are trained in all facets and often specialize to fully master one type of terrain. Its Navy as well, though vast and estimated at a total of 530.000 ships in its arsenal, utilizes multiple classes of ships within each role to maximize winning chances whatever is thrown at them.

The Cole Protocol

This protocol was designed by High Admiral Prescott Cole to ensure Stoinia's survival in the stars. The most important part is that the location of Casaria should be kept a secret at all times. All memory banks on ships have to be either destroyed or wiped, to prevent it from getting into enemy hands. Only after a non aggression treaty has been signed, may the location of the civilian planets be given away. Military outpost have to be kept a secret at all times, unless said nation is on the same side as the Stoinians. Only then may they be CCexempt from secrecy.
Apart from that a list of rules was made to be used in event of a first contact situation. At least one of two, the King or the Strategos, isn't allowed to initiate contact. A military ruler must at all times be in place if a first contact war brakes out. The military strength must be showed to any neighbouring nation. During any procedure to initiate contact a task force shall be formed with enough firepower to ensure its survival, but not large enough to form an invasion fleet.

Demographics

The Stoinian Star Kingdom has a total citizenry of 37.5 trillion, of which 34 trillion are estimated to be Terran, 3 trillion Csin a few billion Kontauri. Additionally, roughly 2 trillion primitive species are estimated to live on their isolated homeworld within the Star Kingdom's borders. These citizens are a part of vastly different cultures, yet are treated equally by the Stoinian state.

Ethnicities

The Stoinian Star Kingdom was founded on the principle of preserving Terran cultures & ethnicities. The state therefore has made programs throughout the nation's expansion to dedicate planets to host and preserve these cultures while also adjusting to the pioneering lifestyle of new colonies. Since the reign of High King Cassander III Casarion, an increase in Stoinian fanatic traditionalists has been noted, with documented clashes between inter-ethnic Terran couples as to which Terran culture to preserve best. Although a rare instance, some planets do remain adamant in the preservation of their own Terran culture.

Settled worlds

The Star Kingdom consists of 6,286 settled worlds hosting 37.5 trillion citizens. These vary from habitable planets to terraformed moons & subterranean or floating gas-giant colonies. Since the MacKinnon Reformations, the Stoinian Armed Forces administers the first five years of a colony, after which its population elects its form of government. This can then take the form of a local constitutional monarchy granted by a peerage by the High King, a republic or even a corporate mandate. From then, the settled world continues to develop itself and may choose to specialise for economic reasons. This has allowed worlds to sprawl into ecumenopoleis, forge worlds, agricultural worlds & (gas) mining colonies, although the Star Kingdom tries to maintain and preserve the native fauna & flora of the world. A balance is typically sought between development & nature. As a result of the Star Kingdom expansionist policies, the majority of Stoinian worlds barely hold even a billion citizens as thousands of frontier worlds hold merely tens of millions.

In addition to colonised worlds, the Star Kingdom also has self-governing space stations which can hold millions of people. These have no legal distinction from traditionally colonised worlds other than being barred from the initial requirement of military administration. About two hundred such space stations exist in the Star Kingdom at important key nodes on trade routes. Their importance has only grown and it no longer is uncommon for space stations to be administrative centres of governments that span into several mining colonies.


Species

The Star Kingdom has incorporated several species into its citizenry, though at various speeds depending on cultural norms. Such was the case in granting Kontauri females citizenship, which was heavily disputed by the majority of the Kontauri population. While currently only a few species are citizens, there are many more primitive species within the borders of the Star Kingdom. These are mostly primitive species and are largely left alone on their homeworlds which are generally ignored when prospecting for new colonies. However, exceptions do exist as is the case for the Nelvaanians on Hyperion.

The right to withhold visa status from certain species is maintained by the Star Kingdom. This form of discrimination is intentional and may appear speciesist, but the official government has maintained that it uses such measures to protect visitors from harm. In addition, the Star Kingdom has signed a majority of the clauses of the Declaration of Sapient Rights and acknowledges the rights of citizens from other star nations.

Languages

The Star Kingdom mandates educational institutions to teach at least a third of its curriculum in Standard Anglish, the lingua franca of the Star Kingdom. This is to ensure national cohesion among its citizens and to mitigate the creation of internal language barriers. As such, most if not all Stoinians grow up bilingual to some extent. Other than this fact, the Star Kingdom gives free rein to its constituents to operate as they please in their administrative tasks as it considers all languages a Terran heritage that must be preserved, regardless of its historical longitude.

This vastness of languages has given rise to many planetary dialects. These dialects are even encouraged as they are perceived as the natural evolution of Terran culture and are largely decentralised to respective linguistics institutions without interference from the federal government. Despite xenophobic policies which resulted in the eradication of xeno culture it fought against, the Sar Kingdom has made dedicated efforts in xeno linguistic studies. Furthermore, the Star Kingdom operates large databases & translation matrices to safe-keep these languages. This array of both (non-)Terran languages has given the Star Kingdom a renowned reputation as a pioneer in xeno linguistics throughout Sector A1-0.

Religions


Education

Healthcare

The Star Kingdom operate a universal free healthcare system with leading curative techniques. Most known diseases have been cured and the healthcare system is adaptive enough to prevent pandemics of new diseases. The healthcare system is provided for by the federal government and maintains a professional quality throughout the entire realm from the towering spire cities to the fringes of the frontier.

Stoinian medicine has also advanced to the point that Terrans have reached their natural lifespan limits of 115 T-years. Although having the technology to extend this life further, the Star Kingdom actively prohibits such practices as it views doing such improvements to temper with the genetic legacy of Mankind. Despite this, gene therapy is widespread and even used to cure newborns of sight & other defects. It should also be noted that such laws only apply to the realm's citizenry. Overall, the Star Kingdom opts to maximise each citizen without augmenting its genetics outside stipulated boundaries. Exceptions do however exist and have formed the basis of a growing forum to alter these laws in the face on interstellar competition.

Culture

The Stoinian Star Kingdom is a benchmark of culture in Sector A1-0. It holds the most diverging Terran cultures within any star nation, ranging from new cultures resulting from melting pots to staunch traditionalists of cultures older than even the Star Kingdom itself. As such, Stoinian literature, traditions, music & folklore are vastly different on every planet, though some common traits remain. Stoinian culture is often seen as belligerent compared to other cultures as it actively seeks to spread itself out. Be it through bombastic historical operas or missionary missions, the Star Kingdom is a staunch promotor of influencing the culture of other star nations. Increasingly, it has succeeded to some extent with the creation of the Pan-Terran League.

Stoinism

Stoinism is what the Stoinians call the overarching Stoinian culture that encapsulates all Terran ethnicities into the term 'Stoinian'. The primary goal of Stoinism is the preservation of Terran culture and to protect and cherish it. As such, Stoinism stands for the survival of a state where all Terran cultures can thrive without restraints. Generally, repressive actions against Terran cultures are frowned upon and this is also reflected in the Star Kingdom's promotion of Terran cultures in other star nations. Increasingly, this belief clashes with the continued incorporation of non-Terran species into the realm.

The Great Hunt

The Great Hunt is a yearly televised hunt where the forty most elite hunters pursue to each hunt a Mardaki in the Mardakii Reservation on Casaria. This Great Hunt is a yearly reminder of the cruelty and serves as atonement for the Mardakii species as payback for their crimes during the War at Home. It remains a very dangerous event, as the events of the Great Hunt of 64 PD have shown. This hunt is seen as a hallmark of Terran supremacy & triumph throughout Stoinian society, though some elements have started to question the necessity of it.

Commodities from the Great Hunt are highly treasured. These range from claws & hides to meat which require reservations for months in advance, often ending in a bidding war. The Great Hunters are also highly regarded and typically become media personalities all over the Star Kingdom. It is also customary that a gift is given to the royal family as gratitude for its leadership.

Outsiders typically are distasteful of this practice, yet it remains a very popular event in Stoinian society. Stoinians will often take pride in this event resulting in severe cultural clashes with outsiders. Increasingly, the question of Mardakii sapience is brought to question, but studies so far have proven that the Mardakii devolve rapidly when brought to captivity in Atonement Valley.

Public Holidays

The Star Kingdom grants its citizens 14 federal public holidays in addition to religious holidays. These holidays are enshrined in the Constitution of Stoinians and are considered a right of every Stoinian citizen. Additional holidays can also be granted, but these are limited within the border of planetary states and may vary in scope.

Religious holidays are free holidays each citizen has a right to under the Constitution of Stoinians. These vary depending on religion, but each practitioner must be granted these holidays by the employer. This is a mechanism held in place to stimulate citizens to practice their faith as a means to preserve Terran culture. It should also be noted that indidivuals who don't believe in any particular religion, are also granted two additional holidays at their leisure.

New Year's Day & Day after New Year's Day are respectively celebrated on January 1st & 2nd in celebration of the New Year in the Terran calendar. Typically, this is celebrated with family members or friends in closed circles. Fireworks are the primary form of celebration as they light up the skies with extravagant flashes at midnight. Although hourly rotations vary on settled worlds, these days are celebrated on the approximate local days across the realm.

Remembrance Day originally began as a commemoration of the Charge at Geelvink Hill, a pyrrhic victory during the War at Home. Each February 12th, the whole Star Kingdom commemorates its fallen soldiers from across all conflicts in lavish ceremonies at local monuments.

Aldana Day is celebrated on March 18th as eternal tribute of Rodrigo Aldana's first successful demonstration of the Stoinian Warp field drive onboard the Rayo. By propelling the original Kingdom into an expansionist Star Kingdom, Aldana is considered a pivotal figure in the formation of the Star Kingdom as well as Mankind's space exploration.

Teachers Day celebrates the efforts of people who constitute the educational system of the Star Kingdom. It has become a tradition for schools to host large festivities each April 21st to celebrate the impact on Stoinian society they have had since the early colonial era.

Colony Day celebrates the landing of the original colony ship that brought the Stoinian settlers to the Casarius system on May 1st

Mother's Day is a large nationwide celebration of mothers celebrated on the 1st Sunday of May. This day is considered especially important as mothers have had an important role since the inception of the original Casarian colonies. Gifts include large flower bouquets, jewellery or desserts.

Father's Day is similar to Mother's Day as to celebrate both parts of the traditional family. It follows Mother's Day on the 2nd Sunday of May. Although non-traditional families do exist in the Star Kingdom, they are freely celebrated on either Mother's Day or Father's Day depending on each individual's preferences.

Victory Day is characterised by large military parades on almost every planet. From the Royal Star Navy's orbital parades around commercial hubs to the Stoinian Royal Army's on May 9th

Casarion Day celebrates the monarchy of the Star Kingdom on May 10th. Its roots lay in the dawn of the High Kingship under the first Stoinian monarchs. It continues to be a paramount holiday celebrating the stability brought by the Royal House.

Children's Day is held June 1st and similarly to Mother's & Father's Day, aims to celebrate each born child despite any imperfections. Large festivals with rides, attractions & toys are held for the enjoyment of children across the Star Kingdom.

Terra Day is perhaps the most unique festivity in Sector A1-0. On July 5th, the Star Kingdom celebrates its origins from Terra and holds large festivals celebrating all Terran cultures present in the Star Kingdom. Increasingly, this holiday has also spread across other Terran star nations who partake in this festivity.

The Great Hunt is perhaps the most cruel of festivities in Sector A1-0 as it serves as an annual commemorative payback against the Mardakii for the horrors inflicted upon the Stoinians during the War at Home. This conflict in the early colonial period had shaken the original settlers in the Casarius system to their core and manifested itself into unmatched retribution. Now it serves as the largest televised hunting event in Sector A1-0 where each year in the second week of August the forty most elite hunters assemble to each hunt down a Mardaki which are then cooked & skinned, thus creating the most luxurious items in the Star Kingdom.

Veterans Day serves as a holiday to celebrate every serviceman of the Stoinian Armed Forces alive to thank them for their ongoing service for the protection of Mankind. It is celebrated each year on November 11th, typically with close family members or friends as the military tries to ensure its soldiers return home for this celebration.

New Year's Eve celebrates the last day of the year on December 31st, commemorating the past year in close circles. It is celebrated together with New Year's Day & Day after New Year's Day.

Stoinian Star Kingdom in Sector A1-0

Stoinians have become increasingly prominent across Sector A1-0. Either through the efforts of the Star Kingdom at large through the efforts of renowned diplomats such as High Legate Sinclair or pioneering individuals on Babylon Cincture, citizens have shaped the image of the Star Kingdom beyond its realm. Despite the xenophobic stances of those leading some of the initial first contacts during the Disclosure of Sector A1-0, more & more Stoinians have come to amicable relations with most star nations. Although a strong preference for fellow Terrans & distaste for artificial lifeforms prevails to this day.

Outsiders have noted the Stoinians to be a complex people as they hold strong to their traditions, yet continue to progress slowly without stagnating. This variety in conduct has made the Stoinian people unpredictable, though not unreliable due to various codes of honour. Additionally, Stoinian citizens have been noted to be expansionary as they spread out influences from their financial system, governance, culture & military through programs & incentives organised by the Star Kingdom.

See also